Diamond Valley Lake
Diamond Valley Lake is one of the newest reservoirs in Southern California. Because it serves as a drinking water supply, no water contact is allowed in the lake. That means no swimming, wading, water-skiing, etc. Restrictions limit the types of boats, engines, and fuels which may be used on the lake. There is a 25 MPH Speed Limit. Reservations are recommended because parking space is limited. Call the Marina.
Diamond Valley Lake is a popular fishing lake. Recreation boaters enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the lake without the buzz of personal watercraft or water skiers. The lake is located just south of Hemet in Riverside County and is owned by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
Diamond Valley Lake was built in a saddle between two mountain ranges. It has a pair of two-mile long dams, one at each end of the valley. A third, smaller dam, is on the north side.
Lake Hours: Change regularly with season, generally about 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Fees
Daily: Entrance/Parking $11, Boat Launching $13, Fishing $9 ($6 for under 12), Shoreline Access $4
Annual Passes: Vehicle $165, Launch & Parking $399
Boating
Diamond Valley Lake restricts the types of boat which may be used on the lake. Any craft which is likely to result in its riders having contact with the water are not allowed, such as personal watercraft, sit-on-top kayaks, and Hobie Cat style sailboats. Only gasoline free of the additive MTBE is allowed. A 25 MPH speed limit is set for the main body of the lake.
Marinas
Diamond Valley Lake has only one marina. It has limited food for sale and only portable toilets available for visitors. There is an 11-lane launch ramp which has been recently upgraded. Boat rentals are limited.
Fishing
Diamond Valley Lake is considered one of the top fishing lakes in California. With restrictions on boating and water sports, anglers can enjoy great fishing all over the lake. Game fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, bluegill, sunfish, catfish, and carp. Only 1.5 miles of shoreline are open to fishing.
Campgrounds
Although plans call for campgrounds in the future, currently there are no campgrounds at Diamond Valley Lake. There are a good number of RV Resorts in the area which offer excellent facilities.
Lodging
There is no lodging at Diamond Valley Lake. Nearby towns such as Hemet provide abundant motels. Several nice bed and breakfasts are located in the area.
Scenery
Diamond Valley Lake is set among mostly barren hills, giving it a rather stark, but interesting setting. Mount San Jacinto rising in the distance is especially stunning. In the spring from March to May wildflowers bloom, brightening the landscape.
Nearby Communities
Hemet is the nearest community to Diamond Valley Lake. Within easy driving distance are the large cities of Riverside and San Bernardino.
Diamond Valley Lake
Aquatic Center
The Diamond Valley Lake Aquatic Center, located next to the lake, has a heated 25-yard outdoor pool with a water slide, zero depth entry with water fountain sprayers and activity toys for small children. It is usually open on weekends beginning in early May and then every day during the summer.
Western Science Center
The Western Science Center, also located near the lake, contains exhibits of prehistoric animals that once roamed the region.
